When do I Need a Lasting Power of Attorney?

If you are incapacitated through old age, accident or illness and can’t make decisions when they need to be made, it’s important that you have someone you trust making decisions for you.

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint up to four people, eg, solicitor, relatives, friends, to make decisions on your behalf. This gives you more control over whatever the future may bring.

You and your attorney(s) must be aged 18 or over and have mental capacity when setting up an LPA.

Two types exist: Health and Welfare – covering things like washing, dressing, eating, medical care, moving into a care home, life-sustaining treatment – and Property and Financial Affairs.

If you lose mental capacity and have no LPA in place, the Court of Protection will appoint a Deputy (who may be a stranger) to manage your affairs. This involves significant legal fees, annual supervision fees of up to £800, application fees, doctor’s certification fees, a security bond, a deputy fee and a long delay.

Avoid this by planning ahead – even if you feel the need is some way in the future.

To set up an LPA, contact Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243.